Bolivia Faces Social Unrest as President Paz Struggles with Economic Challenges

In Bolivia, a wave of protests from various sectors, including transport workers, miners, and teachers, is testing President Rodrigo Paz's administration as he approaches six months in office. The Central Obrera Boliviana (COB), the country's main labor union, has rejected the government's late proposal for dialogue, opting instead to hold a significant assembly on May 1 to outline further demands. Economic struggles are evident, with a 20% salary increase request from the COB denied by the government, which cites a previous raise. The nation is grappling with a projected fiscal deficit of 9% and inflation at 14%, while the political landscape remains fragile with increasing unrest and dissatisfaction among the populace. Observers warn that if the government fails to address these issues, it may face a more unified front of dissenting groups.

Key Details: • May 1 assembly in El Alto to discuss new measures for protest. • COB demands a 20% salary increase to combat inflation. • Projected fiscal deficit of 9% and inflation of 14% for 2026. • Paz's government has seen three presidents of YPFB in six months. • Recent elections resulted in only two out of nine governorships for the ruling party.